LA Marathon 2010

It’s official – I am signed up to run the 2010 LA Marathon. The course was updated – the “Stadium to the Sea” route is very tempting. Starts downtown at Dodgers Stadium and ends at the Santa Monica Pier. Nice!

This new year will have different goals and a very different drive, passion, and vibe than 2009….but that is to be expected. With Ironman in my rearview mirror…everything else continues to be gravy.

Volunteering at the Painted Turtle - Spring 2009

I decided to use the LA Marathon experience to collect donations and awareness for The Painted Turtle Camp – a camp for ill children. The Painted Turtle is part of Paul Newman’s “Hole in the Wall” camps. Super Husband and I were exposed to this camp through a co-worker of mine and we’ve supported them for several years, planning corporate volunteer days, volunteer matches, etc.

New toy: Fuel Belt

This past weekend Super Husband and I took it easy. We didn’t set the alarm clocks – we awoke shortly after 8 a.m. both days…it was glorious. The cool air nipped at our noses as we were warm and cozy underneath the warm and delightful quilts my Mom made us. Nowhere to go – no agenda….

After a delicious Peppermint mocha in our pj’s, we made our way to Long Beach. With the city being quiet during the holidays, we took the opportunity to visit one of our favorite places to walk and bum around.

We arrived at Belmont Shore and wandered the area. I visited our favorite pet supply store – only to see it was bought by another owner and totally redone. Our “Whiskers” store is now “Pussy & Pooch”….I felt I was not dressed trendy enough to step foot in the place. A bit swanky for me – and not a lot of warmth the previous store had. We were offered a Mimosa by the owner, however, as we browsed. I, however, would much rather pet the owner’s dog than have a drink.

We ventured onward down Second Street and I visited a running store “Runners High” where I looked at fuel belts for the first time. Knowing next year’s goal is one or two marathons (one for certain being Long Beach in October), I will most likely be doing some long runs without my IronSherpa at my side. He is an incredible person to train with – but I know there will be runs where I need hydration and he won’t be there. Therefore, I need to find something that works for me. His belt holds two plastic water bottles and it’s a bit big. I tried it once and I ended the run with big bruises around my kidneys. OUCH! So I looked and tried Fuel Belt’s 2-bottle Helium. It looked good (in my bright pink color – to match my shoes and hat!) and felt light and all right. I had to think about it, though… So after some Ironman chats with the store associates (one signed up for his first Ironman next year: Tempe) we visited the bike shop next door (nothing appealing there) and left for lunch. After some delicious baja flavors we went back and picked up the belt. I used it today and I am happy to report it felt comfortable – sturdy. It did twist on my (turn around my waist) but once I tightened it, it stopped.

I am happy to report 2010 will continue toward a 26.2 adventure – and hydration issues will not be a reason for failure…

Malibu Marathon / Malibu Half-Marathon (Inaugural)

November 15 was Malibu’s Inaugural Marathon and Half Marathon. My brother and his girlfriend flew into town and all four of us completed one of the races. Our guests did the full 26.2 while Super Husband and I completed the Half Marathon.

I admit, knowing this was an inaugural event, I was very skeptical. Logistics for a brand new event – including “point to point” (meaning you are driven to one location and end at another versus doing a loop so you start / finish in same location) – can be miscalculated for new organizers. However, I am HAPPY to say my concerns were squashed by the impeccable organization from a fabulous race crew. Truly, they blew me away with their race.

Expo Day - Saturday, November 14
As with most races, those racing must pick up their race bib, goodie bag, etc. the day prior to the race. This race was no exception so we drove along PCH and arrived at Zuma shortly after the Expo opened. It was a very small expo (probably the smallest I’ve ever seen – and that includes local 10k’s driven by the community). Everyone was very relaxed and I was able to see more furry poochies while I was there – than I normally do in the city. We were able to see what the medals looked like (HUGE – and very nice!) as well as the finisher towel. Yes, I said TOWEL. I wasn’t sure if I liked this concept….I mean, I like my t-shirts. However, I reminded myself of the dresser drawers popping at the seams with race shirts from the past 3 years. I have enough t-shirts….this towel will actually come in quite handy! And – with the racers at this particular race, I think it was a good choice. Most of us are used to the beach and/or beachy type atmosphere so we’d enjoy a huge turquoise beach towel that states “FINISHER” on it.

RACE DAY!! Sunday, November 15, 2009
Sunday was a very early day. We awoke at 3:30 a.m. to make it out the door by 4 a.m. We needed to get Wes and Sally to their shuttles around 4:45 – 5 a.m. (Last full marathon shuttle left at 5:30 a.m. – and they wanted to be early). Their race started at 7 a.m. The bummer was the Half marathon did not start until 8:30. ugh. So, Super Husband and I hunkered down in the little Honda Fit and chilled out (more like I SLEPT) until we had to catch our shuttle around 7 a.m.

The shuttles were actually large coach buses. They took us 13.1 miles north along PCH to Thornhill Broome Park. It was a lovely RV park area just south of Big Rock. Once we arrived we hunkered down and watched the sun come higher and higher over the cliffs and listened to the waves crash along the beach. The organizers had water, Zico coconut water (this race’s electrolyte fluid), bag drop set up, as well as a dj with music going to keep people energized. The music was less than stellar….but that is neither here nor there.

Once the full marathon leader blew through we were on our way, around 8:40 a.m. (a little later than anticipated). However, we started our way south to Zuma!

The run itself was very low-keyed, low spectators (a few locals on lawn chairs in their front yards), and very safe. PCH was coned off and Police were riding along the route making sure everyone (traffic and runners) were obeying the traffic laws.

Water was about every mile and a half. Electrolyte fluid was every other water stop. Lava gels were about half way through the race along a few stops – they used Lava Gel brand.

The volunteers were amazing! Always had enough supplies, water – and smiles on their faces! Gels were plentiful. No one seemed to drink the cocount water – so plenty of that as well! *laugh*

The route itself was very peaceful and lovely. There were times where we saw houses versus the ocean but not for long. There were some substantial hills so hill training was necessary – but once I saw Zuma Beach in the midst, I told Super Husband, “Look – see that beach? That is the end.” He perked up after that.

The chute was great – very easy to get through and volunteers had these great food lunch bags prepped with bananas, chips, beverages for us. (Plus, I use the bag for work!) We received our medals, our towels, and headed over to the car to drop off our bounty and then wait for Wes and Sally.

This was not our fastest race for certain – but it was one of the most organized and majestic. I highly recommend it!! If you don’t like quiet, serene races – you may want to think twice before signing up for this race. It is a bit pricier than some but our take-aways were worth it (as well as the organization!).

Positives about the race:

Volunteers – AMAZING!! Race organization, location, shuttles, course, water and gel supplies, take-aways / goodies.

Could be better next time:

New electrolyte fluid! Coconut water can create havoc on one’s stomach! Price is a bit much – but would do it again since it was worth it.

Overall, I would not change much about this pristine race. Great job Malibu! It was a lovely race – and I would aboslutely do it again. KUDOS!

Ink’d!!

This past weekend my Big Brother came into town with his Best Girl. They ran the Malibu Marathon while Super Husband and I ran the Half Marathon (race report to follow). After the race and delicious pumpkin pie shakes from The Counter, we journeyed over to Riptide Tattoos in Marina Del Rey. Big Bro and I got ourselves matching Ironman (“M-Dot”) Tattoos. SO COOL!

Tattoo You

Three weeks until the Inaugural Malibu Marathon and Half Marathon. Big Brother and his girlfriend, Sally, are flying in to run the Full 26.2 miles while Super Husband and I run the Half. The cool thing is after the race, Big Bro and I are going to FINALLY get our Ironman logo (“M-DOT”) tattoos! Wahoo!!

Happy Birthday, Super Husband!

Super Husband’s aunt put together this great JibJab movie.

We busted a gut laughing at this…simply priceless!

Happy birthday, Love!!

I AM AN IRONMAN!

’nuff said.

Ironman Wisconsin 2009

Sunday, September 13, 2009

With only 2 NON-restful hours of sleep behind me, I awoke at 4 a.m. I started the coffee, started mixing my oatmeal and peanut butter…The windows in our hotel room faced the lake and you could already see busy volunteers running around the building making sure everything was in place. Amazing.

I wasn’t sure how to take the fact I had only 2 hour of sleep in me and how on earth was I going to workout for 17 hours on only 2 HOURS SLEEP!? What the heck?? We’ll see what I could do today… like it or not!

Super Husband marked my arms, legs with “71”. He wrote my age on my left leg. I was ready to go! However, I stayed in the hotel room – just took it easy. Tried to choke down the oatmeal (even though I just wanted to barf). However, so many have told me they didn’t feel great starting their Ironman and didn’t eat enough…so I just hoped that food would stay put and be that important fuel for my internal engine!

Around 5 a.m. Big Bro stopped by. He had me mark his arms and legs and after that was all done we all headed down to transition.

Body Marking Big Brother

I did a final tire check with my tires, placed my Hammer Perpeteum on the bike as well as filled my front bottle with Gatorade. We were ready to make our walk to the swim start. Holy cow, this is about to happen…. Realization that I was about to start my own first Ironman was hitting.

SWIM – 1:53:06

2.4 miles (2 loop course)

The swim is in Lake Monona, right off Monona Terrace. The water was 75 and although murky, easy to swim in. No chop, complete glass so early in the morning. We all walked down the helix (parking garage exit/entrance) and came to the area where the athletes separate from loved ones. I had some last minute kisses, hugs, and tears with Super Husband. He gave me some wonderful warm thoughts and kept reminding me to breathe… “just breathe – think of me and breathe…” I did that ALL day! It helped so much.

Swim start - swimmers starting to take their places

Wes (Big Bro), his friend Joe, and I did our final wetsuit check (all zipped, velcroed), put in our ear plugs, swim cap on, goggles on…yep, all good to go.

Once the pro’s were in the water and treading to warm up we were allowed in (around 6:30 a.m.). Wes, Joe and I hit the water and slowly made our way to the starting buoys. We relaxed in the water – just treading, we’d occasionally flip our feet our in front of us or lay on our backs and float. Watching all the chaos from the lake was much easier to take than being in the middle of it!

At 6:50 a.m. the pro’s were OFF!! Our time was soon coming – 10 more minutes!! I dread race mornings since I am not a fan of the anxiety. I knew within 10 minutes all that anxiety would be gone as I put my face in the water and pushed one arm stroke at a time. Task at hand – no time to worry!

7:00 a.m. – BOOM!!! The cannon was fired and we were off! I purposely positioned myself in the back left (back because I am slower and left so I could move inside the buoys). The masses were moving and I swiftly found my place and had no problems with being kicked, punched, grabbed, pushed. The entire swim was so calm and relaxing – hard to believe since this swim is known as a contact sport.

I made the turns with no issues – just slowly but surely. I was sure to not go too fast (may have intentionally gone a little too slow) in order to keep my heart rate down – knowing this was going to be one long day.

As I made my final turn, I could see my swim finish and I motored over. I put my hand up and a swim helper grabbed me. My legs weren’t sure they wanted to move for a second and the swim helper held me up as I wobbled. Then I was out and running.

Transition 1- 9:33

Out of the water, into T1!

Swim cap off, goggles off. The strippers (“wetsuit removers” – but I like “strippers” better) were right around the corner – I wasn’t expecting them so soon so my zipper wasn’t undone, my arms weren’t out of the suit. I felt behind schedule – but two strippers got me right away and helped with arms, legs – I was out of that suit and running in no time!

The first transition for this race has you run up the helix and although I have no issues with the helix it seemed to go on FOREVER. Around, around, around! Finally – to the top, to the conference room and changing area. A kind volunteer dumped my bag (I said “just dump it all!”) and she took out my Hammer Gel flask, my sunglasses as I put on my helmet and gloves. She was super. Quick pit stop – then to my bike.

I found my bike at the far end (aka ‘rockstar parking’) due to participation in the Janus Charity Challenge. Right there, next to the bike out area, was my bright blue bike. By this point most athletes were gone – but there in the corner was my brother waiting for me. Since he’s done this race several times he wanted to be with me on the course as I did my first. (He sacrificed his race – to be a slowpoke with me).

I grabbed my bike – clipped in – and rolled!

BIKE – 8:11:01

112 miles (2 loops)

Starting the 112 mile bike course

I rode down the helix in pure delight that I was out of the water. Now on to the 112 miles! The first 14 miles or so take you out of the city into the country towns of Verona, Cross Plains, and Mt. Horeb. Most think Wisconsin is flat terrain but this area is a lot of rolling hills.

The first 14 miles went quickly and before I knew it we started the first “loop”. It was familiar territory since I knew where I was, what to expect, how to gear. I practiced this course several times with my brother when I visited – and now it was the real deal.

This course is known for its technical difficulty. There aren’t any long steep climbs or descents – just constant rollers with 90 degree turns at the bottoms of the hills. Several hay bails on corners along the course. The rollers also leave little for recovery time so my training for this race consisted a lot of interval sessions. It helped immensely!

Into the bike course - mostly country farmlands

The spectators in this race are amazing – almost all the hills were lined with spectators having their own party watching all of us. Amazing!! There is a little stretch that has three feisty hills close together and the first loop went very well. The TriChicks series helped a lot with that – tried to keep my heart rate at a good place. At the end of my first loop the pro’s were flying by ending their second loop (how humbling!).

The start of the second loop was of course tougher – mentally and physically. I did stop at Special Needs to have a bite of a croissant (soak up some of that Gatorade and Hammer Perpeteum) and within a couple minutes was right back out there. The sun was out and much of the shade was gone. The winds / breezes were virtually non-existent. The fields created this hot humid area as we cycled through. I kept watching the clock – making sure I had time to finish. I knew the cycling portion would be my thorn – and all the training, all the work I’ve done, I desperately moved myself to make that cut-off!

After the second set of tough hills were history, it was mostly downhill back to race central. I think mentally I perked up knowing the end was soon. The area I really did not like on this course was the area through Olin Park – the bike path takes you through the Alliant Energy Center’s parking lot, on a community park bike path – then finally back onto the road. There was an area where it was single file only with sharp turns and this obviously cuts down the speed.

Before I knew it, I had time on my side and I was climbing the helix back up to transition. I heard my mom and Super Husband waiting for us at the top, yelling for us. I think I gave them a heart attack – with only 15 minutes to spare before the cut-off. BUT I MADE IT!!!

Transition 2 – 6:10

Leaving T2 to start the run

I rolled into transition with a mere 15 minutes to spare. Talk about giving my family and support crew a heart attack! However, there they were waiting for me as I cycled up the helix to T2.

I scooted into T2 and had another wonderful volunteer help me. She dumped my bag, grabbed my visor for me. I put on my running shoes – and ran out the door.

Run – 6:03:41

26.2 miles (2 loops)

I ran out of transition and saw the support crew. Hugged and kissed – and went on my merry way. I was feeling good considering I was sitting on a bike for 8 hours. The only thing that felt “off” is my asthma kicked in around mile 80 on the bike. Good thing is I had an inhaler with me – the bad thing is I couldn’t breathe fully and completely so I coughed a lot and could not quite run a much of the run portion as I wanted. I ended up power-walking many miles versus running.

The run on this course is completely awesome – it’s on UW Campus and takes the athletes down State Street (the main drag for UW – lined with bars, coffee shops, pubs, etc.).

Into the 26.2 mile run

Runners get such a rush from all the spectators – and the views aren’t bad either. We ran past the state capital building, down State Street – then turn off through campus. We ran through Camp Randall (UW Campus football stadium) then down along Lake Mendota (another lake along campus). By the time I started the run it was later afternoon so it was cooler and more comfortable.

The first loop went very well and quickly. Before I knew it I completed the turn-around at the Capital, watching others claim their fame to becoming Ironman. I knew my turn was coming…. A couple hours down the road, but my time was coming.

The second loop was mostly power walking since the coughing wasn’t completely out of my system. However, Big Brother and I plodded along at a good clip – we met up with two other LATC’ers actually and made some new pals along the way! The run path became quite dark so late into the night, there wasn’t much light at some points so we had to move along carefully.

Into the run - long after sunset

The other runners we met were so great – it’s always fascinating to meet other Ironman hopefuls. We all have the same goal – and those who are multi-Ironman finishers enjoy sharing their stories as we all pass the time. The miles clicked away – and before I knew it, I passed picnic point (the farthest point from the finish) – said goodbye to all the wonderful posters made by supporters and made my way to the finish. I had a date at the finish line!!

The last few miles went quickly and my heart lept with excitement. About a mile from the finish my brother hugged me goodbye and said I was on my own from that point forward. He wanted to get ahead so he could watch me finish. He sprinted off and I continued up State Street – power walking, taking in the last few moments of my first Ironman. I didn’t want the day to end – I didn’t want to finish to complete the chute just yet… I started rounding the capital building and the supporters got louder. I could hear Mike yelling athletes’ names… the emotion finally took hold and I was consumed with happiness, excitement, tears, relief, bewilderment!

I picked up my pace and HAD to jog the final stage. I looked behind me and no one was there so I would have my very own moment. I continued along and as I took the final turn I was blinded by the flood lights. With tears rolling down my face, I smiled and laughed with giddiness. This is what I’ve worked so hard for….

I raised my hands up high and heard Mike Reilly yell: “MARCI XXXX – FROM LOS ANGELES CALIFORNIA….. YOU – ARE – AN – IRONMAN!”.

Ironman Finisher!!

It was a blur of hugs, kisses, congratulatory remarks for the next hour. I loved every ounce of it. It was difficult (mentally more than physically) – but so rewarding. I am a back of the packer – but full of heart and gumption, just the same. Total time: 16:23:29.

Finish line with family!!

Never in a million years did I see myself finishing an Ironman on my old Alumni stomping grounds. And here I was…

The next day I happened to run into Mike Reilly, the “Voice” of Ironman and he was so kind and congratulated me, hugged me – and let us take his picture.

In short: I came. I did. I am an Ironman.

Ironman Wisconsin 2009: PRE-RACE

Race Report:  Ironman Wisconsin 2009

September 13, 2009

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Gatorade Practice Swim

Gatorade puts on a great function at Ironman races.  They set up a tent so racers may go to the swim area, test the waters and leave their belongings with a secure location.  We drop off our bags with the Gatorade tent volunteers – they mark our hands to match the corresponding bag, and we hit the waters.  When we are done, we show them our wrist – they pick up the numbered bag…all set and safe.  Awesome!

This particular day I did not swim very long – only about 20 minutes.  I wanted to just get in, feel the water, taste the water, see the muckiness…it was about being part of the lake.  My goal of swimming one full loop (out of 2 for race day) was set for Friday.

The swim went well and I got out, changed, picked up a new pair of Newtons (love those shoes!) and did a fly-by of the Ironman store.  Nothing there I wanted or needed – so I moved to the registration line.

Registration

I flew into town Wednesday to get to used to the weather – which was LOVELY.  Sunny, warm, bright – just gorgeous blue skies and lush green trees everywhere.  Very little humidity – and we were in luck… the stormy rainy skies forecasted were soon a memory before they even began.  Our concerns revolving around race day rain turned to overheating and baking in the race day sun.

I stood in line at Monona Terrace and as most know…racing means “Hurry up and wait.”  You stand in line, then go to another, and so on.  I stood in line for instructions and signing of the health / danger waiver.  I then moved downstairs and stood in another line to get weighed.  (Oy – I gained about 15-20 pounds training for this race however, my body mass index went down 1-2 points so I cannot complain).  The scales we stood on had a BMI reader as well as hydration indicator – I was in good shape at 56% (vs. 60% for women) and kept sipping water all week.

I then moved to the next line where I get my packet (swim cap, numbers for helmet, bike, etc.  – and more specifically, the official Ironman bracelet).  Once the volunteer placed the plastic Ironman athlete bracelet on my wrist – it was FOR REAL.  Here we go!

I then moved to the next line to pick up IronSherpa’s tickets for the welcome banquet as well as Awards breakfast (all those wonderful reasons to get order things in advance to make the wait so much less).  Finally, I reached my final line for the day:  the pictures.  I heard a tidbit once and it holds true:  order photos in advance.  BIG TIME SAVER.  I ordered my photos and they were all set waiting for me the morning after the race.  No line to wait in like everyone else.  GLORIOUS!!

So – at this point, I was registered.

I then checked in at Janus Charity Challenge since I was a fundraising athlete.  I was given a great looking tri top and decided to make an inspirational sign as well.  The signs folks make for their loved ones are then placed along the run route.  Great idea!

The last big thing to do for the day was to pick up my bike at TriBike Transport.  They took my bike from my local bike store and drove it (full – not taken apart) to the race site.  I simply checked in, picked it up – and knew at the end of the race I’d drop it back off and see it back in LA.  Easy, efficient, and practical – love that service!

I decided to take it easy the rest of the day – just chill out.  I walked around State Street and chilled out at the Memorial Union.  I then hit the road back to Big Brother’s and met up with him and our mom that night for dinner.  It was great to decompress with them and relax (if there is such a thing before one’s first Ironman!).

Fun sidenote of the day:  I met Paula Newby-Fraser at Monona Terrace.  I saw her walk by and I said hello.  We shook hands, she asked my name – she wished me well on my first Ironman and I gushed a little on how awesome she was.  (Yes, I was a Tri Dork).  Ah well….my celebrity sighting of the day.  laugh

Friday, September 11, 2009

Gatorade Practice Swim

I again hit the water with the goal of completing one full loop of the two loop swim course.  I got there early and went on my way.  52 minutes.  Not terrible….not fast, but it still gave me a nice cushion prior to the swim cut-off.  At this rate I was expecting a 1:50-2:00 swim (I was hoping for 1:40 – but I was realistic).

The lake had some weeds near the entrance which is understandable.  The entrance / exit had many rocks – it was not a beach.  I also liked the fact that although this was an intimidating mass start – the start was not a run-in.  This was a floating start.  All 2500 of us started IN the water which made the stresses a little less.

The water was 75 degrees (a bit on the warm side actually) and a bit green in color.  The ocean is more of a turquoise blue-green.  The lake was more pea-soup green.  No issues with this.  It was actually a great lake for this and I felt really good about getting out there Sunday.  I visualized where I would start and how to maneuver.  The swimmers can swim inside the buoys – just as long as they make their turns on the outside of the red corner buoys.  Cool – no problem.  Visualizing and mental training really helped me out in this race!

After the swim I got a coffee (White Zombie at Ancora – my very favorite coffee) and went down State Street.  I hung out at Memorial Union again – just took it easy, watched the sailboats and waited for Super Husband to arrive into town since he was with this family for the past 2 days.

Once Super Husband arrived we walked back up State Steet, we checked into our hotel located right on the lake, connected to the Monona Terrace (Ironman headquarters) then grabbed the car and he wanted to see some former co-workers from over a decade ago.  We were off – and enjoying being away from all the hub-ub and chaos of Ironman madness.  By this time it was Friday mid-day and registration lines were in full bloom.  Anxieties were high, patience was low, and I needed to get out of there.  This little exit from downtown was a great.

We went to a few places we used to frequent – which included a stop at LaBamba’s burritos.  I forgot how good those were!!  I got a mini knowing we’d have dinner not too far out.  Super Husband was famished so he got the large (“burrito as big as your head”) and cut it in half.  Half now, half for later.  We relished in our wonderfully delicious snack…. MMMMM!!!!

Awaiting to attend Welcome Dinner

Athlete’s Welcome Dinner / Mandatory Meeting

After this we went back to downtown and caught up with Big Brother and his friend / co-worker who was doing his first Ironman.  We all met up and took a seat at the Welcome Dinner.  As we ate our pasta dinner we chatted about what we expected, hoped, how our training went…. Etc.  Then the familiar music began and Mike Reilly was introduced.  Ironman was officially “ON”!

They showed the “You WILL do this” montage I love to show people.  I got chills.  I think I may even had a few tears in my eyes.  It was a motivating dinner.  We saw the oldest  and youngest (no Frank Farrar this year I am afraid).  We saw folks who lost the most weight training for this race.  After the mandatory athlete meeting (stating rules, race cut-off’s, etc.) we were dismissed.  My last final “buffer day” was coming to an end.

Mike Reilly - Ironman Wisconsin 2009

Wes’s girlfriend met us at the Terrace and we all bid farewell for the night.  Super Husband and I were off for a lovely evening stroll down State Street.  Plus, I had a hankering for dessert…. Low and behold, he found a cookie truck (like a taco truck – but for cookies!) at the foot of State Street and we had the “Sugar Rush”:  6 cookies, 6 brownies for $12.  Oh yeah!!

We continued a little further – then were going to turn around when we heard music coming from the Memorial Union.  How odd  – we needed to check this out.  I asked, “I wonder if they have a dance?” since UW has periodic ballroom dances on Fridays.  Since we danced together in college we decided to check it out…We entered the Union and the old familiar smells wafted through the air.  Popcorn, stale beer, a little sweat and perfume.  Wow…take me back to the early 1990’s!

We walked up to the Great Hall and there it was – a big dance taking place.  We decided to say hello to an old friend and cut the rug on a hustle – then called it a night.  We were both too afraid someone would step on my feet and now was NOT the time to screw something up!  I already had a blister from the walking around – I didn’t need anything more.

We walked back to the hotel – it was LATE – and laughed at our fun evening.   As we were about to enter the hotel my husband noticed someone holding a serious looking bike – and it was beautiful.  Black with pinkish-purple accents.  We complimented the person holding the bike and she smiled, said it was her daughters.  Turns out, it was Hillary Biscay’s mom – holding her bike.  I was next to Hillary’s bike – I suddenly felt I had to be careful BREATHING around that thing.  HA!  We wished Hillary luck and congratulated her mom on her daughter’s great career and called it a night.

The buffer day was over – I had to face the fact the next day was the “day before” and race day was just about here.  Holy crap.

Last thing of the day was laying out my transition and special needs bags – and filling them.  Checking lists, double / triple checking lists, packing – repacking… drop off’s were Saturday morning and had to get this done.  I was all set!!

Bike Rack: Athlete #71!

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Gatorade Practice Swim

Gatorade Swim - Saturday before race day

One last practice swim before the big day.  I got out there early – before 7 a.m. and dove in.  I was only out about 30 minutes, but it was enough to keep everything loose and feeling good.  The buzz around Ironman Village was growing by the minute.  As I left the water many were getting in or ready to jump in.  I was so happy to be out of the chaos!!

Transition Drop

I went back to the hotel and we took my transition bags down to drop off at the respective conference rooms delegated for T1 and T2.  I can’t believe it – there are MY bags in transition!!

Transition bag drop

I had to drop my bike off as well – all was working well so I walked over to the bike transition area and noticed my bike rack was WAAAAAY in the front.  Talk about ROCKSTAR parking!!  WOW!  I was given such a great low number (which was great for all transitions, bike rack, etc.) due to fundraising with Janus Charity Challenge.  It’s a great program and highly recommend any athlete doing an Ironman making it even more special by helping those less fortunate.

Racking the bike in transition - day before race

After I dropped off my bike I had tears in my eyes – reality was definitely sinking in.  WOW.  Amazing…. That was MY BIKE sitting there, just a row or two from the Pro’s actually.  That was MY BIKE that was in Ironman…which meant I was in Ironman.  Emotional overload!!

After all the transition drop-off’s, Super Husband and I took it easy.  We grabbed a late lunch / early dinner with Big Bro and his girlfriend at Noodles and Company.  After a great carbo-loading lunch, I ended up taking a very short light nap.  I ate a little more – then we went for a relaxing walk around campus.  Super Husband and I had a walk down memory lane looking at all the buildings still there from our time – and amazed at the new ones since we graduated.  The dorm I worked at was no longer there so I sat on the grassy lot that used to be where Steve would visit me – late on weekend evenings, before we’d go and grab a coffee and bum around State Street (much like we were doing that evening).

After all this we called it a night.  It was the WORST NIGHT OF SLEEP EVER!!!  Maybe 2 hours sleep.  Ugh!!!  Tossing, turning…. What the heck???

Last day….

No more buffer days for me. TOMORROW.IS.IT.

Tomorrow I “toe the line” for Ironman Wisconsin.

I’ve held it together quite well thus far. I’ve had little emotional moments (i.e. when I racked my bike and it was MY bike sitting there….I wasn’t watching someone else bike his/her bike).

Super Husband is keeping me busy but not overly exhausted. I am staying out of the “hub-ub” actually. We are hunkered down in the hotel room right now taking it easy away from all the long lines, chaos and such.

Ready or not….

Athlete #71 - ready to go!